In a significant leadership transition within the Indian Army’s Southern Command, Major General RD Sharma has officially taken charge as the new General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Bison Division. This formal ceremony took place earlier today, marking Maj Gen Sharma as the 38th officer to helm this esteemed formation, succeeding Major General Akhilesh Kumar, SM.
The Bison Division holds a distinguished position in India’s military heritage, tracing its origins back to the Nizam’s Hyderabad Contingent. Following the annexation of Hyderabad in 1948, the division was integrated into the Indian Army and has since been pivotal in numerous operations. This includes its notable involvement in the 1961 liberation of Goa and various missions integral to the integration of princely states into India.
During the ceremony, Maj Gen Sharma delivered a compelling address to the troops, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining the highest standards of discipline, training, and combat readiness. He articulated the critical need for agility and mission focus, especially as the Indian Army embarks on modernizing its capabilities. This modernization effort notably includes the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing, as delineated in the Army’s 2024 technology absorption roadmap.
Southern Command, which oversees the Bison Division, has played a vital role in India’s strategic military operations since its inception in 1895. Led by Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, the command has been instrumental in significant post-independence military endeavors, including the accessions of Junagadh and Hyderabad.
Maj Gen Sharma’s appointment is anticipated to carry forward the proud legacy of the Bison Division, steering it through an ever-evolving landscape of security challenges while reinforcing its status as a crucial force in the Indian Army’s southern theater.
